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HOME :
Asian Art :
Archive : Borobudur Stone Head of the Buddha
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Borobudur Stone Head of the Buddha - PF.6119
Origin: Java, Indonesia
Circa: 800
AD
to 900
AD
Dimensions:
16.75" (42.5cm) high
Collection: Asian
Medium: Stone
Additional Information: Sold
Location: United States
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| Description |
Situated in a secluded valley in Central Java, the
great site of Borobudur is one of the largest and
most magnificent Buddhist monuments in the
world. Construction was likely completed in 824,
during the reign of
King Samaratunga. The architecture
of the site is symbolic of Buddhist cosmology
and reflected their understanding of the universe
and the philosophy of enlightenment. The site is
essentially a giant stupa decorated with over a
thousand
sculptures depicting the life story of the Buddha.
A monument glorifying the wisdom of the
Buddha, Borobudur was once a pilgrimage center
and now remains a popular tourist spot, listed as
one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites for its
immense cultural and historical significance.
This sculpture of the head of the Buddha is a
wonderful example of the Classical style of
Borobudur, whose sculptures are considered to
rank among the most beautiful works of Buddhist
art. Tight curls of hair cover his head and
ushnisha, the symbol of his infinite wisdom. His
elongated earlobes droop down, the sagging
caused by wearing heavy earrings as an infant,
reflecting his royal origins. The urna, or “third
eye,” is represented by a small bump
in between his eyebrows, is also symbolic of his
nobility and enlightenment. The mystical energy
and divine wisdom of the Buddha radiates from
within
this sculpture. This bust was once
part of a larger, full-figured sculpture depicting
scenes from the life of the Buddha, welcoming
pilgrims to one of the most spectacular religious
monuments in
the world. The spiritual energy of
Borobudur continues to attract tourist; this same
energy flows outwards from this work of art and
mesmerizes all who gaze upon it. The
contemplative wisdom of the Buddha shines
through the hard stone and
warms our spirits.
- (PF.6119)
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